Buckingham, 51, was diagnosed with cancer last autumn. He had spent 27 years with the firm in a variety of roles, and was promoted to business development manager for newspapers last year.

He was a hugely popular figure in the industry, known for his wit, humour and integrity.

Graphic Systems director Laurence Robert paid tribute: "Since John died we have had many, many people calling the office. They all had something nice to say and really just wanted to talk about John. It shows how greatly and genuinely he will be missed," he said.

Buckingham is survived by his wife Linda and three children, Daniel, Adam and Layla. His funeral will be held next week.

Donations should be made to the Imperial Cancer Research Fund via Austins of Stevenage.

Contact: 01438 316623.